Pilastering

Pilastering is the treatment of a wall by arranging pilasters in regular intervals to articulate the surface and organize space. A pilaster is a shallow, rectangular projection that resembles a column but is affixed to and part of the wall. It typically has a base, a shaft-like body, and a capital, and it can be plain or decorated in the classical orders. When pilasters are distributed across a wall or façade, the wall is described as pilastered.

The primary purpose of pilastering is decorative, creating vertical rhythm, emphasizing bays, and recalling the proportions of columns. In classical architecture, pilasters imitate engaged columns and may align with an entablature above. Although some historical forms used pilasters for structural imply, most modern examples rely on the wall for support rather than bearing loads.

Historically, pilastering originates in ancient Greek and Roman practice and was revived in Renaissance architecture, then refined in Baroque and neoclassical styles. It remained a common feature in interior and exterior schemes through the 18th and 19th centuries and into later revival movements.

Pilastering varies in style and use. Pilasters may be plain or fluted, paneled or molded, and arranged singly, in pairs, or in long rows. They can continue around corners or follow a rhythm set by a frieze and cornice. Materials include stone, plaster, wood, or stucco, and pilastering is frequently paired with other architectural orders to create a cohesive facade or interior scheme.